Question 1: Explain the purpose of a gear train in a mechanical system. How does it affect the movement and force transmitted?

Answer: A gear train transmits rotational motion and force from one gear to another. It can change the direction of movement, increase torque, or modify speed depending on gear sizes and arrangement.

Question 2: Identify and describe two common types of mechanical linkages used in machinery.

Answer: Examples include the crank and slider linkage, which converts rotary motion into linear motion, and the lever linkage, which amplifies force or motion in a system.

Question 3: Design Brief: You need to create a simple mechanical device that lifts a small weight using a lever. Sketch your design plan, showing the lever, fulcrum, and load placement. Label the key parts.

Answer: [DESIGN TASK] A sketch showing a lever with a fulcrum positioned closer to the load for increased force, the load on one end, and a force applied on the opposite end. Labels include 'lever', 'fulcrum', 'load', 'effort'.

Question 4: Describe how a pulley system can make lifting heavy objects easier. Include in your answer the difference between a fixed and a movable pulley.

Answer: A pulley system redirects force, allowing easier lifting of heavy objects. A fixed pulley changes the direction of effort but doesn't reduce force needed; a movable pulley reduces the effort by sharing the load, making lifting easier.

Question 5: Sketch a simple cam mechanism that converts rotary motion into reciprocating motion. Indicate the cam shape, the follower, and the motion path.

Answer: [DRAWING TASK] A sketch of a cam with an eccentric shape, a vertical follower in contact with the cam surface, and an arrow showing the reciprocating (up and down) motion of the follower.

Question 6: What is the function of a conveyor belt in a mechanical system? Describe one advantage of using a conveyor belt in manufacturing.

Answer: A conveyor belt moves products or materials from one location to another automatically. An advantage is that it increases efficiency by enabling continuous movement of items along the production line.

Question 7: Identify the type of mechanical system used in a bicycle’s gear mechanism. How does it change the rider’s effort and speed?

Answer: A bicycle uses a derailleur gear system, which shifts chain between different sized sprockets. Larger sprockets make pedaling easier (less effort), while smaller sprockets increase speed.

Question 8: Explain the concept of mechanical advantage. How is it achieved in systems like levers and pulleys?

Answer: Mechanical advantage is the factor by which a machine multiplies effort. In levers, it is achieved by positioning the fulcrum closer to the load; in pulleys, it’s achieved by using multiple pulleys or arrangements that reduce effort needed.

Question 9: Design Brief: You are asked to develop a small mechanical arm that picks up and moves lightweight objects. Sketch a basic design showing the joints, actuators (such as gears or levers), and the gripping mechanism. Label your parts.

Answer: [DESIGN TASK] A sketch of a mechanical arm with a base joint, elbow joint, and a gripper at the end. The sketch should include gears or levers to actuate movement, with labels for each part.

Question 10: Describe how a ratchet and pawl mechanism works and give an example of where it might be used.

Answer: A ratchet and pawl mechanism allows rotation in one direction only by engaging a toothed wheel with a pawl that prevents movement in the opposite direction. It is used in tools like socket wrenches.

Question 11: Sketch a simple model of a screw jack used for lifting heavy loads. Show the screw, handle, and the base platform. Label your parts.

Answer: [DRAWING TASK] A side view of a screw jack with a threaded screw, a rotating handle at the top, and a base platform. Labels should include 'screw', 'handle', 'base', and 'load platform'.